Anthony Lapsley Replaces Steve Carl In Bellator Welterweight Tourney

Bellator Fighting Championships on Friday announced that Bellator veteran Anthony Lapsley will replace an injured Steve Carl in the promotion’s Season 4 welterweight tournament.

Lapsley is now slated to meet UFC and Strikeforce veteran Jay Hieron in a quarterfinal match-up at Bellator 35 on March 5 at the Tachi Palace Casino & Resort in Lemoore, Calif.

Lapsley steps into the tournament riding a four-fight winning streak, including a dominant submission victory at Bellator 7 against Ryan Williams. Currently holding an impressive 19-4 record with 13 submissions and three knockouts to his credit, Lapsley also holds a notable TKO victory over fellow Bellator Season 4 welterweight tournament fighter Brent Weedman.

“I’ve put in some work in the game and I’ve been through my struggles and ups and downs, but I feel like I’m ready to take it to the next level and make it happen for the family,” said Lapsley.

“Jay is actually a fighter I’ve always enjoyed watching, I just never thought I’d have the opportunity to fight him. It’s going to be a war. It’s going to be a war because I’m going to make it a war. He’s been on some big shows and fought some really tough guys, but it’s my turn now.”